An estimated 4,800 people are sleeping rough in Britain, with 43% in London and the South East. The Catholic Church speaks unequivocally of the infinite dignity of every human person, regardless of their circumstances. In his message for the World Day of the Poor in November, Pope Leo said that “the poor of our day are the forgotten and the marginalised: robbed not only of bread, but also of a voice and a face”.
For many years, the Jesuits have responded to homelessness through practical support and advocacy, working to ensure that people on the margins are not forgotten. Across Britain, Jesuit parishes and communities offer welcome and accompaniment through a range of local initiatives, from meals and outreach to healthcare and other essential services, creating spaces where people are treated with dignity.
Dr Paul O’Reilly, a Jesuit priest and doctor who works as a GP with people experiencing homelessness in a south London medical practice, said:
“I welcome Andy Burnham’s commitment to end rough sleeping. I know from my experience over many years that this will not be easy because of the diversity of causes which drive people onto the streets. It will require financial resources, perseverance and profound empathy to make the difference that is so desperately needed.”
At Farm Street Church, the Jesuit parish in central London, the Central London Catholic Churches (CLCC) homeless lunch service provides meals and companionship to people experiencing homelessness. The parish also runs Cana Café, offering catering training for those rebuilding their lives. Earlier this year, Archbishop Richard Moth visited the lunch service, meeting guests and volunteers.
The Jesuit Refugee Service UK (JRS UK) extends this work to people made homeless by the asylum system, providing accommodation and support for destitute refugees while advocating for their needs to be recognised by policymakers. In its 2024 report, JRS UK found that rough sleeping is common among people refused asylum and that destitution has a profound impact on people’s health, security and dignity.
David Ryall, Director of JRS UK, said:
“More than four in ten of the people we serve spent nights sleeping on the streets last year. No one should be forced into homelessness because of the way our asylum system operates. We welcome the Prime Minister’s commitment to end rough sleeping. To make that promise a reality, it must be accompanied by a fresh approach to asylum policy that puts people’s safety and dignity first.”
